Robotics and Automation Engineering Technology

Students will develop a thorough understanding of modern, industry-standard PLC hardware and software to enable them to use PLCs effectively. Topics include the PLC as a task specific computer, program scan, relay ladder logic, digital and analog, sequencers/drums, functions and function blocks, RLL, SCL, FBD, human machine interface, and other industry related topics. Numerous industry examples will be explored and discussed. Labs will emphasize program organization, documentation, audience awareness, maintainability, robustness, fault tolerance, and debugging.

Introduces fixed and flexible automation equipment. An emphasis is placed on flexible equipment components such as the industrial robot. Robot topics include history, geometric configuration, component subsystems, robot safety, basic programming and operation, and end effector design. Lab work includes the use of industrial robot arms to perform various independent functions such as assembly and material handling processes. Other equipment studied includes motion control devices, such as motors and sensors, conveyors and parts feeder mechanisms, and use of vision systems and other automation equipment used in manufacturing. Students enrolled in this course will be charged a $50 materials fee.

Covers advanced topics that include the integration of robots and CNC machines into manufacturing cells. The integration of automation equipment such as PLCs, motion control devices, and vision systems is also covered. The lab work includes the use of PLCs, robots, CNC machines, and other automation equipment. Students enrolled in this course will be charged a $50 materials fee.